United Way of Buffalo & Erie County kicks off 100th anniversary celebration as part of Day of Caring event

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Thu, Aug 17th 2017 10:35 am

More than 3,600 volunteers help celebrate 100 years of UWBEC before beginning a 'Day of Service' to benefit local nonprofits

More than 3,600 volunteers gathered Wednesday to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the United Way of Buffalo & Erie County at KeyBank Center prior to spending the day volunteering as part of the organization's annual "Day of Caring" volunteer event. To celebrate reaching the century milestone there was a ceremonial cake cutting and remarks by UWBEC President and CEO Michael Weiner.

"Day of Caring" is the area's largest community service event with more than 148 organizations and labor unions participating, assisting 138 nonprofit organizations.

Reaching its own significant milestone of 25 years this year, "Day of Caring" pairs volunteers with local nonprofit agencies to provide extra help for projects that may include cleaning, painting, landscaping, reading to children and performing numerous other volunteer services. The extra time, talent and support allows local agencies to use their resources in service of their mission in the community. Over its 25-year history, more than 451,000 volunteer hours of service have been shared with local nonprofit agencies, saving approximately $8.4 million.

Organized by the United Way of Buffalo & Erie County and sponsored by GEICO, HSBC, National Grid and Wegmans, "Day of Caring" has become an annual tradition for local organizations and labor unions, providing an opportunity for everyone to work together and contribute to local organizations that strengthen the community.

Weiner said, "From the earliest days of the United Way, the local corporate community and labor unions has been integral in helping us fulfill our mission. With 3,600 employees representing 148 companies here today, it is only fitting that we kick off the celebration of 100 years in the Western New York community at 'Day of Caring.' I can just imagine how delighted our founders would be to see the incredible support of individuals and businesses here today to dedicate their time and talent in service to our local nonprofit community. And, we know from 25 years experience, that 'Day of Caring' also helps to make long-term connections between volunteers and nonprofit organizations that can lead to future volunteering and support."

After the kick-off rally and anniversary celebration, volunteers from companies and organizations were bused to individual project sites to work throughout the morning and then returned to the arena for lunch and entertainment. The luncheon event also included a volunteer fair where participants could learn more about nonprofit services and identify opportunities to get involved beyond "Day of Caring."

For 100 years, the United Way of Buffalo & Erie County has sought to unite the whole community to improve the health, education and financial stability of every person in every community in Erie County. United Way of Buffalo & Erie County mobilizes thousands of people every year to give, advocate and volunteer to help children reach their full potential, families achieve financial stability, and the whole community attain and maintain good health and wellness.